During my most recent trip to Zhytomyr, our staff members Kris and Katya invited me to join them on a hospital visit. The patient, Nadia, was new to Last Bell, and she looked completely surprised to see us! Her shy smile soon warmed into conversation and laughter.
The hugs, prayer, and food we shared with Nadia that day were an important ministry step. After discharge, her first outing was to our Day Center. She joined us for a game of Qwirkle and met more staff and other youth. She also showed interest in church.
Nadia is at student camp right now. Katya wrote, “Nadia is doing well – her arm has healed. She’s absolutely thrilled to be at camp.”
Walking alongside orphan teens means physically going out to them. Our staff visit their social housing, hospital rooms, and schools. Then we gather them into our community.
Our new Day Center opens later this month, with space to welcome even more youth like Nadia.
So many of you, our dear partners, have journeyed with us for years of “going out” and “gathering in.” We look to the future with joy, hope, and faith in our God who “sets the lonely in families” (Psalm 68:6).
With gratitude for your work of support, and for your faithful prayers joined with ours,
Marguerite Havard
Executive Director